Let’s Protect Our Right to Nature: Support the Access to Nature Bill

Campaigns

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Nationally

The national Ramblers organisation has a long history in campaigning going back over 70 years.

Your membership helps keep that campaigning spirit alive.

A history of success:

In 1949, the Ramblers was instrumental in securing the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, legislation that led to the creation of National Parks, National Trails, the definitive map of rights of way in both England and Wales, and National Nature Reserves across Great Britain.

More recently, the Ramblers has also helped to establish national parks, most recently for the South Downs and New Forest in the early 2000s.

The charity has also had a key role in establishing national trails as a concept and practically.

A long-term goal of the organisation was achieved in 2000 with the passing of The Countryside and Rights of Way Act, which grants the freedom to roam in mapped areas of open countryside in England and Wales.

The Ramblers has also been at the forefront of those campaigning for a consistent scheme of access to the whole coast of England and Wales (under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009) and for its implementation.The Ramblers have been successful in securing government funding for the completion of the King Charles III England Coast Path.

In Sussex

On a local level, Ramblers volunteer teams often take on practical roles in campaigns, for example helping to maintain footpaths across East and West Sussex, keeping a watch on planning applications in their area and researching and registering paths for the Don’t Lose Your Way campaign.

Sussex Ramblers often works in conjunction with private individuals, local authorities and other public bodies to keep paths open and develop routes for long distance paths. The Area is closely associated with the creation and maintenance of the Sussex Border Path and the Sussex Diamond Way and is a member organisation of the South Downs Network.

As lovers of the outdoors, we understand the profound benefits that access to nature brings to our lives. That’s why we, at Sussex Ramblers, are calling for your support in an important campaign. The Ramblers are urging the government to introduce a transformative new Access to Nature Bill that could significantly improve public access to green spaces and protect our natural environment for future generations.

Why the Access to Nature Bill Matters

You can read our full proposal for an Access to Nature Bill here. This proposed legislation aims to expand public access to green spaces, enhance protections for wildlife, and promote sustainable outdoor recreation. It’s a vital step toward ensuring that more people, especially those in areas with limited access, can experience the joys and benefits of nature. Additionally, this bill would help safeguard the countryside we all cherish while encouraging responsible, sustainable enjoyment of these spaces.

However, like all important legislative proposals, it will face challenges along the way. Your local MPs have the power to shape the future of this bill, and it's crucial that they understand how much it means to their constituents. By reaching out to your MP, you can play a key role in securing the future of our green spaces.

Let’s Work Together: Contact Your MP

At Sussex Ramblers, we’re dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to nature and the great outdoors. Your voice can help make that vision a reality. Let’s stand up together for the landscapes we love and ensure that future generations can enjoy them too.

We encourage you to take action by contacting your local MP and expressing your support for the Access to Nature Bill. Personal stories and perspectives make a real difference in these campaigns, so explain why access to nature is important to you.

A quick email or letter can make a world of difference in shaping the future of our landscapes.